Latest reviews

Rosie reviewed: Patchwork and quilting week with Dawn Cameron Dick

"Hi Dawn Just to thank you once again for a wonderful week. I learned so much and it was a lovely group where everyone was so generous not only in sharing their knowledge but constantly offering words of encouragement. I loved listening to all your tips and learning different techniques. The only downside was the week went too quickly. What a wonderful place Lilac Barn is. Cherry is such a wonderful host and a lovely person. So thank you once again for an inspiring week"

Chris reviewed: Patchwork and quilting week with Dawn Cameron Dick

"We both benefited from Dawn's course and returned with information overload thankfully we have made notes for reference. It was wonderful to start off with basics, needles and threads it has made an enormous difference to my machine which is very OLD. Thankfully I hadn't purchased a new model before the course, I certainly know what I should be looking for now."

Jo Passingham reviewed: Online courses in sculpture

"I can highly recommend Danae, the course succeeded my expectations. We discussed via email what I’d like learn but I have come away learning much much more. Its was clear she had spent time constructing the course to meet my needs and she went through each step methodically and concisely. She welcomed discussion and questions at every point. No question was too dumb to ask ! Her enthusiasm for her subject shone through and it is infectious. I have come away not only with knowledge but feeling very inspired to develop my sculpting and drawing further."

Kate Clark reviewed: China mosaic workshop with China Petals

"I went to the workshop ran by Diane on Saturday 13th October. I have never done anything like this before and Diane explained things really well and you could ask her any question and she was more than happy to help. Diane was really welcoming and the whole course was relaxed, fun and interesting. I have got the bug and want to carry on experimenting with mosaics. I can’t recommend Diane and her course enough especially if you are a beginner like me."

China Petals responded:

"Thank you Kate, I'm glad you had a good time and you feel inspired to make more :)"

Sue Jackson reviewed: Watercolour 2 day Art & Spa full board learn to paint @ The Flackley Ash Hotel Rye Sussex

"This was a fantastic weekend. I really enjoyed the course. Vicki and Beth were great tutors and I learned a lot. The course catered for all abilities and it was amazing how much we accomplished in a couple of days! I am already putting my newly acquired skills and knowledge to good use. The venue was also excellent. I thoroughly recommend this course."

Christine Jones reviewed: Fascinator making in Wellsborough nr Nuneaton

"The venue was very convenient, warm, a kitchen for the essential cuppa, plenty of tables for cutting out, others were available if required. The course run by Rachal started on time, instructions were clear simple and repeated and assistance readily available if required. Rachal made a point of asking each of us to introduce ourselves and our give a brief outline of our crafting/sewing experience which gave her an insight into the assistance individuals may require. All materials were plentiful and numerous test pieces and pre-made fascinators in Rachal boxes gave us guidance and inspiration. We were a lively group and we were all amazed at how much we achieved in a day. Angela (Best Kept Secrets owner) is going to facilitate an advanced course early in 2019 we were all so inspired!"

Chrissy Caine reviewed: 2-Day Leather Bag Making Course

"I had a super time at the two day workshop recently, and Becca couldn't have been more accommodating. She helps you every step of the way, so even though I was anxious I was able to produce a superbly professional looking handbag. I had never used an industrial machine either, but again with guidance got the hang of it fairly quickly. There were just a few of us and all doing different projects, but Becca gave each and every one of us plenty of individual attention. Overall an excellent few days and I can't speak highly of this workshop. I am hoping to return in the future as I really enjoyed it. Thanks to Becca I have a terrific keepsake to show friends and family who couldn't believe the professional finish"

Ann Wilson reviewed: Shirley Stewart's 2 day Weekend Throwing Workshop

"The description sounds very good and appealing ."

Trev Rymer reviewed: Blacksmithing Beginners day courses in Yorkshire and the North East

"The toolmaking course was the usual Wood experience with its mixture of useful practical information and humorous banter. I opted to do something different to the norm as I have made quite a few tongues in the past. I opted for a couple of scroll formers. No problem to Adrian he just let me carry on and make them, both he and Andy on hand for advice when needed. Thanks lads. Debbies food was its usual excellence with the lemon drizzle cake exceedingly drizzly. Brilliant day."

Dave Smith reviewed: One to one, One day, blacksmith course

"My wife bought me a voucher for the one-day course as a christmas present. I'd been looking forward to it since I booked it and it didn't disappoint! Ended up making a door knocker. Despite being a complete beginner with any kind of metal work, I ended up making something I was quite proud of by the end of it! Alex is very helpful and a great teacher. Highly recommended!"

Claire Maguire reviewed: Beginners Sewing - Day course

"I recently attended the beginners workshop, had a great time and was useful to finally be able to use my sewing machines. Judi was both helpful and patient as i was an absolute beginner. The tote bag and coasters were an added bonus to have something to take home upon completion."

Felicity Johnson reviewed: Lucy Churchill's Stone Carving Workshops

"Lucy is such inspirational teacher, I really loved every minute of learning how to stone carve from scratch. It was such a brilliant weekend where I learnt lots, laughed lots and ate lots! Really can’t recommend her highly enough."

Fiona & Orla Hamill reviewed: Bespoke candle making workshop - Edinburgh

"My daughter & I attended this candle making course. We were made to feel very welcome in Kerry’s beautiful homely kitchen. Kerry is incredibly knowledgable, patient & encouraging & we had a fantastic time. We created the most fabulous candles, mixed our own scents & learned lots! W would absolutely recommend this course."

Demi Womack reviewed: Pottery classes in Teesside

"I had such a lovely pottery experience at Poppy Rose. Louise was very knowledgeable of the craft and was very encouraging. I came away feeling inspired and excited about the possibilities of future clay projects. I plan on returning soon and I would definitely recommend to people of all pottery ability. Many Thanks"

PoppyRose responded:

"Thank you for your kind review, Demi, it's greatly appreciated! Your pot is fabulous and it was a pleasure to help you achieve your goal. Many thanks, Louise"

Derek reviewed: Blacksmithing - one to one - Hammer Skills

"I did this course with Bob and thought it excellent, you get a good insight into the trade whilst also learning all the basics. I made a couple of holdfasts for my work bench in the afternoon and a lovely decorative poker for my fire, Bob knows his trade very well and puts you at ease from the start. If you're interested then I would highly recommend this course."

Jacquie Easton reviewed: Watercolour 2 day Art & Spa full board learn to paint @ The Flackley Ash Hotel Rye Sussex

"Brilliant weekend, would highly recommend it, suitable for all ages and abilities, groups, couples, singles. I had not picked up a brush in 30 plus years and was super nervous. But I needn’t have been - Vicki was a brilliant teacher. Will definitely be looking to attend other events or workshops in the future."

PHILIP MORGAN reviewed: Wood turning tuition, New Forest, Hampshire (1 day) (2 people)

"Had a splendid day with Graham. He is a very good tutor, and has a well equipped workshop. I left with 2 pieces i am well pleased with. Highly recommended. Phil"

Marijke Munro reviewed: Clay portrait weekends with Karin Ort

"My daughter and I had a wonderful weekend making a clay portrait. It was something neither of us had done before and I was a bit apprehensive at first to be able to make anything resembling a face but it was just magical, features come to life under your hands with of course the expert tuition of Karin who would just exactly help where and when it was needed. The group was really nice too, we had good chats over a cup of tea and during lunch. I got the bug for sculpting now and will do more of it in future, it is truly so much fun. Can wholeheartedly recommend this experience!"

The Phoenix Studio responded:

"What a cracking review Marijke! Thanks for taking the time to write it and we are so glad that you both came to spend the weekend with us! bw, James and Karin"

Eileen Ward reviewed: Introduction to Frame Loom Weaving

"Great time had today. My first attempt and very pleased with the outcome. Alice is very approachable and the studio is ideal. Plenty of tea, coffee & biscuits. Food at The Canteen very good as well. In all an excellent day. Thanks Alice. Eileen x"

Karolina reviewed: Weekly pottery/ceramics classes

"Booked a taster session for 6 people to try a bit of pottery. Alison was very accommodating and a great teacher. Lots and lots of things to use and learn. good bit of fun as well. Would love to continue with regular classses as Alison is an amazing teacher and a lot of fun as well! ?"

Janet reviewed: Fused glass workshops in Cornwall

"This was an inspired birthday present from my husband who also attended the course. We were both very impressed with both the teaching, encouragement and the finished results. Wendy made it a fun day and it passed too quickly. Wish we lived closer, I can't wait to do it again."

Charlotte Goldsbury reviewed: Fascinator making in Wellsborough nr Nuneaton

"Throughly enjoyed the whole day, even better than I expected! Learnt so much, and Rachel is so attentive. Had such a fab day and can't wait to get making some more now with my new skills"

Karolina reviewed: Pottery classes in Teesside

"Had a lovely time at a taster session on the wheel. Very relaxed and Louise was great to talk to. Definitely interesting to learn about different techniques about throwing as well as decorating. Lovely shop and people. ?"

PoppyRose responded:

"Thank you for your lovely review, Karolina, it is greatly appreciated! It was great to have you both on the taster and I'm so pleased you enjoyed the experience. You have both created fabulous pots. Well done and thanks! Louise"

Tracey Spraggs reviewed: Painting & Sailing ART retreat holiday in Greece for beginners and improvers inc flights & 7 nights B&B ATOL protected

"Really grateful to Vicki and Beth for their guidance, faith and encouragement. Not having painted since school I was slightly apprehensive but I needn't have worried. They chose a beautiful relaxed environment in which to inspire, the other guests of were lovely and supportive of each other and the tuition was excellent. It's true to say I am now motivated to continue painting and will sign up for another Arty Party Break for sure!"

Vicki Cooper reviewed: Willow Animal Sculpture (2 days) in the Peak District

"A great course and beautiful nourishing environment. Caroline is a very talented craftswoman and a caring and attentive teacher. Her step by step guidance and enthusiasm for each of our projects carried us all through the course to produce a menagerie of beautiful animals. I would highly recommend this course."

Zantium Studios Ltd responded:

"Thankyou so much for your warm and positive comments. You were a buoyant and talented group. Lovely to meet you, Vicki - I hope your willow horse is enjoying pastures new and receiving many admiring glances."